Guinea-Bissau - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

There were no changes to the advisory level. The “Crime” indicator was removed. The “Other” indicator was added. The advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to Guinea-Bissau due to unrest, inadequate health infrastructure, and landmines.

Advisory Summary
There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Guinea-Bissau. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Consular services are provided by the U.S. embassy in Dakar, Senegal.

Unrest
Guinea-Bissau has had periods of political instability for decades, including political unrest in November 2025. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Health
Guinea-Bissau’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications are limited and may be unsafe. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your own expense.

Landmines
Landmines and unexploded ordnance from prior conflicts exist throughout Guinea-Bissau. Areas of greatest risk are Bafata, Oio, Biombo, Quinara, and Tombali. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.

If you decide to travel to Guinea-Bissau:

  • Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
  • Refer to our list of medical providers.
  • Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
  • Do not visit locations where landmines are known to exist. Be alert to signs that mark unexploded landmines. Stay on main roads and do not travel at night.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Guinea-Bissau.
  • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Guinea-Bissau, including which vaccines are recommended prior to your travel.
  • Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
  • We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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